By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
THE State Government has announced stiffer fines and inspection powers as part of a crackdown on the “barbaric” live-baiting of greyhounds.
In Parliament today, the government tabled a report by Racing Integrity Commissioner Sal Perna to add to a chief veterinary officer report.
The government, in accepting the report’s 68 recommendations, announced the introduction of a new offence of being present at a place where live baiting is occurring.
Other initiatives include inspectors having greater powers to enter training tracks and the outlawing of certain animals at greyhound venues.
Racing Minister Martin Pakula also announced an independent integrity regime for all three codes.
It will be developed by former British Horseracing Authority chief executive Paul Bittar.
“A practice as barbaric as live baiting has no place in Victoria’s greyhound racing industry – full stop,” Mr Pakula said.
The reports came in response to alleged live-baiting by trainers at Tooradin Training Track.
Seven trainers – Christopher Connolly, Dennis Dean, Brett Mackie, Darren McDonald, Anthony Mills, Jon Roberts and Eric Sykes – linked to Tooradin were charged by Greyhound Racing Victoria.
The independent Greyhound Racing Appeals and Disciplinary Board will hear and determine the charges.
Greyhound Racing Victoria gave in-principle support for the “direction of their recommendations”.
“It is vital that the entire greyhound racing community accept the need for change to ensure this industry prospers in the future,” chairman Ray Gunston said.
“There was an environment that existed where this shameful act occurred and went undetected.
“There is no doubt more work needs to be done to ensure we are able to prevent and/or detect such barbaric behaviours.”
